The Power Behind the Innovation
The HRX217K2VKA and the GCV190 Engine
In keeping with its no-compromise philosophy, the new Honda HRX217K2VKA lawnmower features an advanced 4-stroke power system, the Honda GCV190, which provides a quiet, low-emission and reliable source to drive both the cutting blade and the drive wheels. The overhead cam (OHC) GCV190 is one of Honda's most technologically advanced engines, first introduced in March 2003. It incorporates the company's latest design and manufacturing features.
GCV190 Specifications
| Model | |
| Engine Type | |
| Bore x Stroke | |
| Displacement | |
| Net Horsepower* | |
| Net Torque | |
| Ignition System | |
| Starting System | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | |
| Air Cleaner | |
| Oil Capacity | |
| Lubrication System | |
| Fuel Consumption | |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | |
| Dry Weight (dry) |
*The power rating of the engine is the net power output tested on a production engine for the engine model and measured in accordance with SAE J1349 at 3,600 rpm. Mass production engines may vary from this value. Actual power output for the engine installed in the final machine will vary depending on numerous factors, including the operating speed of the engine in application, environmental conditions, maintenance and other variables.
To maintain the exceptional reliability expected of Honda's engines, the GCV190's internal components have been strengthened through the use of a stronger piston pin than the model it replaced, as well as a larger connecting rod, larger rod journal, and redesigned oil control ring.
Environmental Leadership
At the neighborhood level, the GCV190 engine provides HRX217K2VKA owners (and their neighbors) with a quiet yet powerful and lightweight source of power for a variety of demanding mowing applications. In particular, the quiet operation offered by the GCV190's built-in timing belt results in greatly improved sound quality. Honda engineering also has reduced valve train and gear noise for a better quality engine sound that is distinctly easier on the ears.
For the person walking behind the mower, low-emissions mean more than just preserving the environment in general. The GCV190's innovative combination of a compact combustion chamber, overhead cam configuration and uniblock construction significantly reduces fuel and oil consumption as compared to conventional side-valve engines. Honda's DuaLube™ System achieves full engine lubrication by combining governor slinger paddles and an oil bearing timing belt. This simple construction reduces many potential maintenance needs, making Honda's GCV190 one of the most efficient cost-effective engines available. The result is a quieter, easier starting engine that delivers a more pleasant experience for consumers.
Other Consumer Benefits
One of the great frustrations in lawn mowing can come from simply trying to get the mower to start. Honda's GCV190 minimizes this annoyance through high-quality manufacturing and by special features designed to improve starting reliability. The GCV190 incorporates, for example, a horizontal cross-flow intake port that smoothes the flow of fuel into the combustion chamber. This feature, combined with Honda's automatic mechanical decompression, eliminates many of the causes of summer starting problems.
Breakdowns provide another source of frustration and expense. Honda minimizes the cost and aggravation of owning a lawnmower through advanced design technology and through the legendary quality of its manufacturing process. The GCV190's unique combination of the world's first internal timing belt and uniblock construction creates a lighter and more compact package than anything else in its class. This combination also minimizes the number of moving parts - sources of potential breakdowns - and makes the engine more reliable and easier to operate.
About Honda Engines
Honda is the world's largest producer of engines, selling nearly 24 million annually across its product lines in 2007. The GCV190 engine powering the HRX217K2VKA will be produced at Honda Power Equipment manufacturing, Inc., in Swepsonville, North Carolina, using domestic and globally-sourced parts.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The new HRX217K2VKA lawnmower offers Honda's newest technological innovation, the SMART Drive™ Variable Speed Transmission. SMART Drive allows the user to easily control the mower speed by simply resting his or her hands on the handlebars.
The HRX VXA model is truly self-propelled and pulls itself forward easily with a maximum speed of 3.6 mph.
In conjunction with the GCV190 engine, the new HRX VXA model also is equipped with the Zone Start Safety System. When the mower is started, the blade turns with the engine. When the operator lets go of the mower handle the blade (engine) must stop within 3 seconds. In other words, the operator cannot leave the designated "Operator Zone" to restart the mower engine.
